How To Read Digital Camera Reviews

With so many cameras on the market and so many so-called experts vying for your attention, it can be difficult to know who to trust and where to look. Camera reviews can be just as complicated to wade through as the products they purport to simplify. When you’re ready to really start digging deep, here are three things you should look for.

Varied Comparisons

Camera reviews should include plenty of comparisons, not only between comparable models but between different types of cameras as well. For example, a vetted reviewer will include information about both DSLR cameras and compact cameras. In addition to breaking down the reviews to include information that would appeal to any consumer—no matter budget or skill level—a trustworthy camera review will compare specific camera features between models.

Detailed Specifications

A camera buff you can trust won’t sell you on one feature alone—this is especially true when it comes to megapixel counts regarding cameras. For example, the number of megapixels a camera has is important, but just as important as its sensor size. In addition to megapixel count and sensor size, specifications of a good camera review should include special filters (such as fish-eye and artistic in-camera editing options), proof-ratings (such as its applicable waterproof, shockproof, and crushproof rating), and other special features (such as image stabilization and facial detection).

Who’s it for?

Not all cameras are great for all users. Reviews can often make it seem as if every model will work for any consumer. If you’re looking for a simple point-and-shoot, a review for a Canon 1D X should let you know in the first sentence that this model isn’t for you. If you’re an experienced photographer, you should know right off the bat that the Nikon Coolpix (popular as it is) won’t do the trick. With so many options ranging from customer-intuitive snapshot models to professional or broadcast-quality ones, trust a review that lets you know who it’s written for right off the bat.